A Hometown Homecoming at the Videotron Centre

The tie against France brings elite international team tennis back to Quebec City, a venue and a city that hold deep personal significance for Auger-Aliassime. Speaking with Tennis Canada ahead of the weekend’s matches, the world-ranked competitor reflected on his upbringing in the area. He described a balanced, peaceful childhood spent riding bicycles through his neighborhood, attending local schools, and practicing at neighborhood parks and tennis courts.

“I grew up in a peaceful, healthy, and balanced environment where the world felt like a safe place,” Auger-Aliassime shared with Tennis Canada. “I don’t have anything but great memories of my childhood.”

Shaped by Family and Early Discipline

Tennis has been a central pillar in Auger-Aliassime’s life from the start, largely thanks to his father, Sam Aliassime, who maintained a passion for the game long before his son was born. Rather than letting professional pressures strain their relationship, father and son maintained strict boundaries.

The family rule required them to return home for dinner without discussing events from the court, establishing a clear separation between a father-son dynamic and a coach-player relationship. According to Auger-Aliassime, his father demanded high work ethics, discipline, and ambitious goals while offering constant support during successful moments. That foundational training accompanied the growth of his father’s coaching career and local academy.

Growth of Tennis Across Quebec

Auger-Aliassime noted a profound transformation in local tennis over the past two decades. Fueled by a succession of standout Canadian players, interest in the sport has surged across Quebec. Today, local clubs, training academies, and summer camps routinely operate at full capacity.

Recalling his youth, Auger-Aliassime mentioned frequently attending the former WTA tournament held in Quebec City. Bringing the Davis Cup to the provincial capital represents a natural evolution for a region that has steadily expanded its participation and engagement in tennis.

Team Dynamics and the Davis Cup Format

As preparation wraps up for the weekend showdown against France, Auger-Aliassime emphasized the unique camaraderie within the Davis Cup environment. He pointed out that contemporary players on tour often share deep friendships off the court before competing as adversaries.

“I’ve always loved playing Davis Cup,” Auger-Aliassime told Tennis Canada. “All the players of this generation are friends first before being colleagues, before being opponents on the court. Building bonds with them, playing as a team, trying to win together—it’s the best feeling.”

He added that competing for a collective national objective consistently brings out his best performances. Facing high-pressure moments remains a central focus as he prepares to execute his strategy under intense competition.

What Comes Next

Team Canada faces France at the Videotron Centre in Quebec City as part of the Davis Cup qualifying schedule. Fans attending the weekend sessions can expect high-energy competition and direct national stakes as the tournament progresses toward subsequent rounds.